New coach ready to steer Patriots onto successful path

When Desiree Betts resigned her head volleyball coaching position at Livonia Franklin earlier this summer following the birth of her first child, it was only natural that Ashly Butkowski fill the void.

A former standout player at Franklin before graduating in 2009, Butkowski served as a freshman and junior-varsity coach for the Patriots prior to landing the varsity position in June.

"I'm really excited about this opportunity," Butkowski said. "I've coached most of these girls already, so I'm familiar with what they can do and they know how I coach.

"We have a lot of seniors on this team, so we have the potential to be good. We have senior leadership pretty much everywhere on the court. They're not only strong players, but they know what they're doing on the court. They know where to be and they communicate well."

Butkowski said she is implementing a series of new hitting drills that will help diversify the Patriots' offense.

Engineering the Patriots' new scheme will be senior setter Kennedy Mang (5-foot-7).

"Kennedy is a great all-around player," said Butkowski. "She's the kind of player who is always motivating the team and she never gives up on a point. She's committed to winning and she loves the sport."

The Patriots' premier defensive player is senior libero Kelly Newton (5-8), who frustrates opposing hitters with her all-out style of play.

"Kelly reads the ball well and she can cover anything that comes over the net," said Butkowski. "She's always encouraging her teammates and is a good leader."

Senior Sarah Cramton, a 5-9 outside hitter who can play pretty much anywhere on the court, is the kind of dependable player a first-year coach covets.

"Sarah is very committed to helping the team be successful," said Butkowski. "Off the court, she's very reliable; one of those players who never misses a practice. On it, she's a very good defensive player and right outside hitter who is a good passer and can get aces when she's serving."